Avalanche Photodiode Sensor Quenching Circuit for High-Intensity Light
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LIDAR sensors using silicon photomultiplier elements (SiPM) with avalanche photodiodes and quench resistors face limitations in high-intensity light scenarios, where the maximum current is restricted, leading to decreased functionality and prolonged recovery times, and reverse-bias voltage fluctuations affect sensing performance.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a second resistor and a rectification element, such as a diode or transistor, in parallel with the quench resistor to manage current flow and facilitate faster carrier discharge, thereby enhancing the sensor's ability to handle high-intensity light and reducing recovery time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a quench resistor is used in the sensor, then the sensor has high sensitivity, but the maximum current is restricted leading to decreased functionality during high-intensity light exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The quenching function is divided between two separate components: a first quench resistor (Rq1) connected in parallel with the APD for primary quenching, and a second quench resistor (Rq2) connected in series with the APD for additional quenching support. This segmentation allows each resistor to optimize its function without the current restriction problem of a single quench resistor configuration.
2Reliability
If a quench resistor is used in the sensor, then the sensor can detect light, but the recovery time is prolonged during high-intensity light exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The quenching process is segmented into two stages using two separate quench resistors. The first quench resistor (Rq1) in parallel provides rapid initial quenching to stop the avalanche quickly, while the second quench resistor (Rq2) in series provides additional quenching support. This segmented approach significantly reduces the recovery time compared to using a single quench resistor.
3Reliability
If a quench resistor is used in the sensor, then the sensor can operate, but the reverse-bias voltage decreases significantly affecting sensing performance
Solution Approach 1:
The voltage drop issue is addressed by segmenting the quenching function between two resistors. The first quench resistor (Rq1) in parallel has low resistance and causes minimal voltage drop, maintaining the reverse-bias voltage across the APD. The second quench resistor (Rq2) in series handles the additional quenching current without significantly affecting the APD's reverse-bias voltage, thus preserving sensing performance.
4Device complexity
If only a single quench resistor is used, then the device complexity is low, but the sensor cannot handle high-intensity light properly
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor circuit is segmented into two quenching paths: one through the first quench resistor (Rq1) in parallel with the APD, and another through the second quench resistor (Rq2) in series. This segmentation enables the sensor to handle high-intensity light properly by providing dual quenching support, while keeping each individual resistor relatively simple in structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This configuration allows for improved sensitivity and reduced non-usability periods during high-intensity light exposure, ensuring consistent sensing performance and faster recovery, thus enhancing the overall functionality of the LIDAR sensor.
Implementation Method 1
a sensor using a silicon photomultiplier element (SiPM) is known as a sensor that can be used in LIDAR devices. The sensor used in LIDAR may include an avalanche photodiode
Implementation Method 2
Incorporating a second resistor and a rectification element, such as a diode or transistor, in parallel with the quench resistor
Data Source
AI summary
A sensor includes an avalanche photodiode (APD), a first resistor, a second resistor, and a rectification element. The first resistor is connected between a current output terminal of the APD and a first output terminal. The second resistor and the rectification element are connected in series between the current output terminal and a second output terminal. The rectification element is connected between the second resistor and the second output terminal.